Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex condition that impacts normal brain development and affects a person's social relationships, communication, interests and behaviour.

ASD is a spectrum disorder which means there is wide variation in how it affects each person. Individuals with ASD vary widely in their needs, skills and abilities but most have common types of characteristics including:

• difficulties with communication and social interaction;
• repetitive interests and activities, and;
• unusual attachments to objects or routines.

The effects of ASD may not be visible to most people.

Studies indicate that ASD affects about one in every 150-165 children. It is the most common neurological disorder in children and the cause or causes are still unknown. ASD usually appears early in life, often before the age of three, and is four to five times more common in boys than in girls.

For now, there is no cure for ASD. There are, however, highly effective treatment and intervention methods available that can help individuals and their families address the characteristics of this disorder. Early interventions based on best practices are intended to help children with ASD develop skills, learn to communicate effectively, share in family life and enjoy success at school.

In this section, you will find information for parents, including information on assessment and diagnosis and autism programs. There are also useful resources for service providers as well as information on transition planning, publications and links.

	Related MCFD Sections: For more info on related services and programs, please visit: Children & Youth with Special Needs Child & Youth Mental Health Child Care Early Childhood Development Provincial Services for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder